WWE SmackDown Live Results, Highlights, and Grades for March 26, 2019
UP NEXT: @RealKurtAngle competes in his FINAL #SDLive match against @AJStylesOrg. pic.twitter.com/6ahCc70vfY
— WWE (@WWE) March 27, 2019
Kurt Angle vs AJ Styles
Next up on SmackDown Live we saw the continuation of the Kurt Angle Farewell Tour. Angle was scheduled to face AJ Styles, a man he has plenty of history with but hasn’t fought in a WWE ring. The two men exchanged a show of respect before things got started, really driving home how special it is for so many to be a part of Angle’s final moments.
So much history. #Respect #SDLive @AJStylesOrg @RealKurtAngle pic.twitter.com/9XgQxzzlVY
— WWE (@WWE) March 27, 2019
The match was off to a quick start with Angle nailing a German Suplex and attempting an Angle Slam, but AJ Styles slipped out of it. He quickly locked on the Calf Crusher, and it looked like Kurt Angle might tap out early. Angle persevered, finally rolling through the move and turning it into an Ankle Lock on Styles.
Styles also fought hard, getting out of the move, but things didn’t get much further than that. Styles was on his feet moments later waiting for Angle to rise, and AJ suddenly was hit with an “RKO outta nowhere.”
An #RKOOuttaNowhere spells the end of @RealKurtAngle's FINAL #SDLive match...but @RandyOrton got an #AngleSlam for the inconvenience! pic.twitter.com/6c83elfF95
— WWE (@WWE) March 27, 2019
The referee called for the bell due to the interference, and this dream match was cut short. Orton looked pleased and started to beat down Styles, but was caught from behind with an Angle Slam. Orton rolled out of the ring and retreated, and Angle helped Styles to his feet in the ring.
Grade: C-, This match really deserved the time to be something special. Orton’s interference could’ve easily come after a longer match, and this basically robbed us of the final chance to see Styles and Angle go toe to toe.